As the Chicago White Sox prepare for their weekend games, excitement is high among fans, especially following the election of Robert Prevost as Pope Leo XIV, a notable South Sider. Laronna Woolf, a dedicated Sox fan enjoying pregame festivities at Cork & Kerry, expressed her delight in merging baseball and spirituality, reflected in humorous memes combining the Pope with Chicago sports culture. The atmosphere surrounding the Sox has shifted since the papal announcement, providing a much-needed morale boost for a team that has struggled this season, currently holding a dismal 11-28 record.
Before a recent matchup against the Miami Marlins, the White Sox paid homage to Pope Leo XIV on their video board, generating applause from fans. This gesture is particularly meaningful as the Sox seek to turn around a season filled with challenges, reminiscent of last year’s record-setting losses. The win against the Marlins served as an uplifting moment, coinciding with the spirit of change brought by the new Pope.
Manager Will Venable confirmed the promotion of minor league player Tim Elko to the major league roster, referencing a feeling of divine intervention among the team’s members since the Pope shared his Chicago roots. In a lighthearted jab at the Cubs’ claim to the Pope’s allegiance, the Sox creatively responded on social media, reinforcing the competitive camaraderie between the two sides of Chicago’s baseball rivalry.
As anticipation builds for the City Series between the Cubs and Sox next weekend, the playful rivalry has been reignited. The emergence of Pope Leo XIV as a Sox fan adds a new dimension to baseball folklore, allowing fans to revel in the joy he has brought amid a challenging season. Sox senior vice president of community relations, Christine O’Reilly-Riordan, emphasized the importance of this moment for fans who have been seeking a source of pride and positivity after a few tough seasons.
While themes and fanfare centered around the Pope may evolve, fans are embracing this opportunity with open hearts. The sense of community and delight among Sox supporters is palpable, and as O’Reilly-Riordan notes, the energy from Pope Leo XIV’s fandom is likely to illuminate the ballpark.
As the summer unfolds, fans are eager to see how the new papacy coinciding with the baseball season will inspire both players and supporters, paving the way for unforgettable memories and possibly a turnaround for the White Sox. The collaboration of faith and sports offers a unique bond for the community, fostering pride and optimism within the South Side.